Tipped nail polish bottle on a carpet with a spoon lifting the spill

How do I get nail polish out of carpet?

Scoop up what you can, test nail polish remover on a hidden spot, dab it on with a white cloth from the edge in, then rinse and dry.

You need

Steps

  1. Spoon lifting wet nail polish off the carpet next to paper towels

    Lift blobs with a spoon, then blot with paper towels.

  2. Spot test of nail polish remover on a hidden corner of the carpet

    Test the remover on a hidden spot. Wait, then check.

  3. White cloth with remover dabbing the polish stain from the edge in

    Put remover on a cloth, not the carpet. Dab edge in.

  4. Polish moving from the carpet onto a clean white cloth

    Keep dabbing with clean parts of the cloth.

  5. Cup of soapy water and a white cloth over a faded spot

    Blot with a little dish soap in cold water.

  6. Towels and a heavy book on the carpet to soak up water

    Rinse with cold water. Press dry with towels and a weight.

Don't

FAQ

Is acetone safe on carpet?

Not always. Acetone can melt acetate fibres and loosen the glue in the backing, so try non acetone remover first and always test a hidden spot.

What if the polish is already dry?

Hold a cloth with a little remover on it for a few minutes to soften it, then lift it off layer by layer. It may take a few rounds.

Can I use rubbing alcohol instead?

Yes, it can work. Use it the same way: on a cloth, after a hidden spot test, then rinse with cold water.

Will it come out fully?

Often, if you act fast. We have cleaned carpets in Richmond and Vancouver since 2020, and fresh spots that were dabbed, not rubbed, come out best.

Related: How to get red wine out of carpet?
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